Thanks for the information. One lesson learned from this experience is that you cannot have enough gasoline on hand. That's a bit of an overstatement as you must weigh the balance of having a quantity of a flammable liquid in your house with your situation. However, this is day 3 after the hurricane and few gas stations are operational. The ones that are have unbelieveable lines and run out within a couple of hours. Purchases have been restricted to filling your vehicle tank and one, repeat one, container.

If my power had not been restored Sunday night, I don't know how long I could have kept my food from spoiling on 10 gallons. I was running the generator for 4 hours, then off for 10-12 as it was -- making sure I recharged everything that needed it during the on times.

Anyway, I've learned lots of lessons. I need a chainsaw. I need more gas cans. I need a wet-dry vac.

Other planning went well. Amature radio was a godsend. When the power went down, I still had direct contact with emergency net control in my part of the county, the county EOC, and the fire department down the street. All were on a local repeater and reachable, if necessary. I also heard traffic from the local shelters and could make decisions as to when to head to the safe room. Sure, I guess a portable AM radio would have given me some of the same information, but it was a great feeling knowing that we were not alone.

I'm happy to share my experience to anyone who needs information. Just PM me.

Best wishes.

Craig.